Courtois hails ter Stegen in praise: “He’s always been great for Barcelona” | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has emerged as one of the best-performing goalkeepers in Europe this season.

Under the leadership of Xavi Hernandez, the German international has been able to regain his confidence. It has been evident in his performances this term, with the goalkeeper playing a key role in helping Barcelona retain the best defensive record in La Liga so far.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming El Clasico, ter Stegen’s great counterpart at Real Madrid, Thibaut Courtois, has heaped praise on the German, suggesting that he had always been a ‘great goalkeeper’.

“I don’t think he has improved at all, because Ter Stegen has always been a great goalkeeper. Sometimes there are bumps in your career and you have the bad luck that maybe they mark you an unfortunate goal sometimes,” Courtois told Movistar Plus.

With a save-percentage rate of 89%, ter Stegen outperforms all the other ‘keepers not only in La Liga, but also in Europe this season. In contrast, Courtois, who has been very consistent at Real Madrid, has racked up a save percentage of 81% this season.

Ter Stegen has also recorded 19 clean sheets in 25 league matches, which is an astounding tally for any top goalkeeper. However, credit should also be given to the Barcelona backline for playing a vital role in offering optimal service to the German.

“What happens is that now things are going well for him and a goalkeeper with confidence grows even more,” Courtois added, setting the stage for El Clasico.

One would expect both of these goalkeepers to play a central role when Barcelona take on Real Madrid at Camp Nou this evening, with every save and every clearance likely to be crucial.